A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a red, painful bump that forms on the edge of the eyelid. It looks like a pimple or boil and is caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands or hair follicles of the eyelid. While styes can be uncomfortable and unsightly, they are usually harmless and go away on their own.
Types of Stye
1. External Stye
– Appears on the outer edge of the eyelid.
– Caused by infection in the hair follicle of an eyelash.
– Looks like a red bump with pus at the tip.
2. Internal Stye
– Develops inside the eyelid.
– Caused by infection in the oil (meibomian) glands.
– Often more painful and less visible than an external stye.
Causes
– Bacterial infection (commonly Staphylococcus aureus)
– Poor eyelid hygiene
– Touching the eyes with dirty hands
– Using old or contaminated eye makeup
– Inflammatory conditions like blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
Symptoms
– Red, swollen bump on the eyelid
– Pain or tenderness
– Watery eyes
– A feeling of something in the eye
– Crusting on the eyelid
– Sensitivity to light
Treatment
Most styes heal on their own within 1–2 weeks, but you can speed up recovery and reduce discomfort by:
1. Warm Compress
• Apply a clean, warm cloth to the eye for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times a day.
• Helps drain the pus and reduce swelling.
2. Keep the Area Clean
• Wash your hands before touching your eyes.
•Gently clean your eyelids with mild soap or eyelid wipes.
3. Avoid Makeup and Contact Lenses
– Don’t use eye makeup or wear contact lenses until the stye heals.
4. Do Not Pop the Stye
•Squeezing it can worsen the infection or spread it.
5. Medical Treatment
– If the stye doesn’t improve, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or, in rare cases, drain it surgically.
Prevention Tips
– Wash hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes.
– Clean makeup brushes and avoid sharing eye products.
– Replace old or expired eye makeup.
– Maintain proper eyelid hygiene, especially if you have a history of styes or blepharitis.
Conclusion
A stye may be painful and annoying, but it’s usually not serious. With proper care and hygiene, most styes heal quickly and without complications. If your stye persists or worsens, see a healthcare provider for treatment.
Healthy eyes start with clean habits.
